Covered bridges in Massachusetts harken back to a simpler time of life. As the years go by, there are fewer and fewer of these lovely structures that remain standing. So hop onto one of the best road trips in MA and check them out before they disappear.

You can complete this Massachusetts covered bridges road trip in one day or break it up over the course of a weekend for two days of fun. First things first, check out the road trip map and directions.

1. Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge, Hardwick
Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge, Ware, MA, USA
Michael Laferriere/Google Photos
The first stop on this covered bridge road trip in MA is the Ware-Hardwick Bridge. Built in 1886, this bridge boasts a spectacular location in the village of Gilbertville in southern Hardwick. It has stunning wooden gabled walls that allow light to peek in just enough. Even though it's over 100 years old, the bridge is still open to cars, so use caution when exploring. Read further on about the Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge.
2. Tannery Bridge, Sandisfield
Tannery Road, Tannery Rd, Sandisfield, MA, USA
Getty/DepthofField
The Tannery Bridge is a fun covered bridge that spans the west branch of the Farmington River in Sandisfield. Vehicles are still permitted to go through the bridge, so keep to the edge if you're exploring this Massachusetts covered bridge on foot. If you want to stay overnight here or just want to grab a bite to eat, check out the New Boston Inn.

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3. Sheffield Covered Bridge, Sheffield
Upper Sheffield Bridge, Sheffield, MA 01257, USA
Getty/DenisTangneyJr
Also known as Old Covered Bridge, this bridge is one of the prettiest in the state. It's actually a replica of an 1837 lattice truss bridge that was destroyed by a blaze in 1994, but you'd never know by looking at it. It's the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a picnic by the water, especially since this is a pedestrian-only bridge. There's plenty of grass to spread out on, so don't be shy about relaxing and maybe snapping a few photos at one of the prettiest covered bridges in Massachusetts. Read further on about the Sheffield Covered Bridge.
4. Burkeville Covered Bridge, Conway
Burkeville Covered Bridge, Conway, MA 01341, USA
Getty/Westhoff
This bridge may not be the most spectacular on this itinerary, but it does have one awesome thing going for it: the Burkeville Covered Bridge is the oldest in the state! It's a rare example of a multiple-kingrod bridge with iron tensioning verticals and it's easy to explore on foot. Make this a quick stop on your way to the next bridge on this MA road trip. Discover more about the Burkeville Covered Bridge.
5. Arthur Smith Covered Bridge, Colrain
Arthur A. Smith Covered Bridge, Lyonsville Rd, Colrain, MA 01340, USA
Getty/DenisTangneyJr
We might have saved the best covered bridge in Massachusetts for last. The Arthur Smith Covered Bridge in Colrain is a classic, red covered bridge that looks like something from a postcard. It was built in 1869 and is the only Burr truss bridge left standing in the state. It spans the North River and is closed to vehicle traffic, so you can hop out of your car and walk across the bridge without worrying about cars. As this is the last stop, you may want to snap a few more photos before heading into nearby Colrain for dinner. Learn more about the Arthur Smith Covered Bridge and more beautiful covered bridges in the US.

What are your favorite covered bridges in Massachusetts? Tell us in the comments!

Bring your friends and family along on your road trip! Check out what RVshare has to offer.

These structures are the perfect spots to explore. Read more about some of the best historical attractions in Massachusetts.

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More to Explore

Massachusetts Scenery

Rachel Raimondi | August 19, 2023

What are the most scenic towns in Massachusetts?

Another great idea for some MA road trips is heading to the most scenic towns in Massachusetts:

  • Chatham: This town is located on Cape Cod. Enjoy plenty of time in and around the water here with several beaches available. There’s also an assortment of eateries and shopping to take in on Main Street as well as plenty of outdoor fun available, such as the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. And of course, the 1877 Chatham Lighthouse Beach is a must-see.
  • Nantucket: This gorgeous island is only accessible by plane or ferry. It’s a lovely spot for shopping and dining but is most known for its stunning hydrangea season in July. It’s great for history buffs, with museum choices like the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum. And you can also take in the surroundings by bike or boat.

 

What are the best hikes with a view in Massachusetts?

While covered bridges in Massachusetts are pretty great, consider taking in some more beauty of the Bay State by heading out on some hikes with a view in Massachusetts:

  • Walden Pond: You know a place is pretty great when an entire book is written about it. This reservation was the home of author Henry David Thoreau in the mid-1800s. Today, you can visit and take the 1.7-mile loop around the pond. You can also swim or boat on the pond.
  • Chasm Loop Trail: Located in the 100-acre Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, this 1.4-mile out-and-back trail features some really interesting rock formations, such as The Coffin, Lover’s Leap, and Corn Crib. And if you have some more time,  go (or just watch) rock climbing.

 

What are the best state parks in Massachusetts? 

Consider planning some road trips in MA to visit some of the best state parks in Massachusetts:

  • Bash Bish State Falls Park: Located in Mount Washington, this park is 424 acres. While its most popular feature is the 80-foot-tall Bash Bish Falls (the tallest in the state), you can also fish or venture out on another trail.
  • Hopkinton State Park: You’ll find this 1,500-acre state park over in where. Swim in the reservoir or take a paddleboat, canoe, or kayak out to explore. Or take in one of the hiking trails. You can also picnic here.

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